In an email to CBC News Sudbury, spokesperson Lisa Gibson said Target remains committed to the Canadian marketplace.

But Cambrian College business professor Brian Vendramin said the company needs to find new ways to re-engage with consumers.

Cambrian College professor Brian Vendramin says competition is fierce as department store chain Target tries to get a foothold in the Canadian marketplace. (CBC)

“They need to try to reconnect with the Canadian market. And I think they're going to do that by trying to get some of the Target, if you wish, from the States — the chicness — back into Canada. [They need to try] to get a different type of merchandise in,” he said.

Vendramin said part of the reason for customer dissatisfaction is because Canadians who shop at Target in the US don't have the same experience north of the border.

It has been just over a year since Target opened its doors in Sudbury and North Bay.

Jan Monteleone said she shops at Target on Lasalle Boulevard in Sudbury at least once a week because she likes the service and cheap prices.

“[I have] no complaints. They always come and ask you if they could help you and stuff,” she said. “I found it very good.”

But Vendramin said local competition is making it tough for Target to lure customers.

“Locally you see that Walmart has ramped up with a big expansion,” he said. “They're prepared and it shows.”

To encourage thoughtful and respectful conversations, first and last names will appear with each submission to CBC/Radio-Canada's online communities (except in children and youth-oriented communities). Pseudonyms will no longer be permitted.

By submitting a comment, you accept that CBC has the right to reproduce and publish that comment in whole or in part, in any manner CBC chooses. Please note that CBC does not endorse the opinions expressed in comments. Comments on this story are moderated according to our Submission Guidelines. Comments are welcome while open. We reserve the right to close comments at any time.

Note: The CBC does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comments, you acknowledge that CBC has the right to reproduce, broadcast and publicize those comments or any part thereof in any manner whatsoever. Please note that comments are moderated and published according to our submission guidelines.